Definition

A value or item that is significantly different from the others in a group, often making analysis or comparison difficult.

Example

In the data set, the outlier skewed the results of the analysis.

Conversation

Did you hear about the data analysis they did for the project?

Yeah, I heard they found an outlier that messed up the results.

Exactly! It’s crazy how one outlier can change everything.

I know! They really need to take those into account next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Outlier is formed from "out-" (meaning outside) and "lier" (from Old English "leogan", meaning to lie or rest). The word describes something that lies outside the main group or pattern, indicating an exception or anomaly.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'outside' ('out-') the usual group or pattern — that's what an outlier represents.

Visually Confused Words